401(k) Calculator

This calculator starts with current balance, annual salary, employee contribution rate, employer match assumptions, expected annual return, and years until retirement. It converts contribution inputs into a monthly saving stream, then projects growth using monthly compounding.

Because employer matching can meaningfully change the pace of accumulation, the tool separates employee contributions from match amounts. It pairs naturally with the guides on 401(k) vs. IRA and how much should I save for retirement.

The projected balance is a simplified estimate of what the account may grow to if contributions, match, and return assumptions remain consistent. The result grid breaks out annual employee contributions, employer match, and estimated long-term growth so you can see where the projection is coming from.

This makes the calculator especially helpful for comparison questions: How much does the match matter? What happens if the contribution rate rises? How different does a longer time horizon look?

The estimate is intentionally simplified. It does not model plan fees, contribution limits, vesting schedules, investment menu quality, taxes, or changing salary over time unless you approximate those effects yourself through the inputs.

Results are estimates only. Real retirement outcomes depend on savings behavior, market returns, job changes, and planning decisions that no general calculator can fully predict.

Use this calculator when you want to compare 401(k) contribution strategies, understand the value of an employer match, or estimate whether your current pace looks aligned with your broader retirement goals.

Strong companion resources are retirement calculator, IRA calculator, retirement savings by age, and the retirement hub.